Wednesday, 24 December 2014

TEN THINGS I'VE LEARNED IN 2014

1. Life's too unpredictable to not make the most of now

With this being my second Christmas affected by ME / CFS, it's clear that I won't be getting my pre-illness life back overnight. In May, I made a concerted effort to stop wishing the time away until I feel better and start making the days count in the meantime.

2. It's okay not to be okay

This year, I've realised that in order to maintain a positive outlook I need a clean slate. Processing and releasing negative feelings as and when they arise gives me exactly that.

3. The internet is wonderful

When you're unable to leave the house a great deal and social situations are exhausting, life can get a little lonely. Interacting online with others in similar circumstances has been a lifeline for me since I fell ill. I feel incredibly lucky for the kindness and support shown towards me through this blog and social media.

4. There's more to me than my chosen career

Resigning from my job brought on a minor identity crisis. Having put so much time and energy into becoming a Speech and Language Therapist, I felt quite lost when it was no longer something I was able to do. In a way though, it has been a blessing in disguise and allowed me to realise more of the other, arguably more important, things that intrinsically make me 'me'.

5. Classics aren't scary

When reading became difficult, I started using the Audiobooks app.In an attempt to make the most of the time on my hands, I've been slowly working my way through classics and have been pleasantly surprised at how many I have enjoyed.

6. Refusing help isn't admirable

Accepting my new limitations has been a real challenge. It's taken me quite a while to realise that struggling on without help doesn't do anyone any good in the long run. People who care want to help. Allowing them to do so is better on both sides.

7. There's a long way to go in terms of accessibility

Now that I'm living in back in a city, I've needed to use my wheelchair when out and about. I've been shocked at times at how poor wheelchair access is to shops and public places. This is something I will be making a point of raising whenever I encounter it in the New Year.

8. Healthier food, healthier mind

Staying positive with chronic illness needs a bit or work. I've found that it's that much easier when I'm giving my body the right fuel.

9. Experiences > money

Being on a tight budget doesn't leave a lot of 'fun' money. Looking back over the year though, by far the nicest moments have been those that haven't cost a thing.

10. Uncertainty is freedom

It's impossible to say what this coming year will bring for me. A while ago this would have terrified me but lately it has felt incredibly liberating. I don't need to be trying to get back to exactly where I was before I fell ill. I can start afresh with brand new goals and ambitions.